Tooth Surfaces and Dentition

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary related to tooth surfaces, types of teeth, and dentition in dentistry, which will help in understanding the subject matter for upcoming exams.

buccal surface

The surface of a tooth facing the inner cheek.

labial surface

The surface of a tooth facing the lips.

lingual surface

The surface of a tooth facing the tongue.

mesial surface

The surface of a tooth closest to the midline of the dental arch.

distal surface

The surface of a tooth farthest from the midline of the dental arch.

occlusal surface

The flat chewing surface of posterior teeth.

incisal edge

The cutting edge of anterior teeth.

palatal surface

The surface of a maxillary tooth facing the hard palate.

permanent dentition

The set of adult teeth, typically totaling 32 teeth.

primary dentition

The first set of teeth that humans develop, consisting of 20 teeth.

premolars

Teeth located between canines and molars, used primarily for chewing.

molars

The large, flat teeth at the back of the mouth used for grinding food.

mandibular

Refers to the lower jaw.

maxillary

Refers to the upper jaw.